The Romantic
“I love you!”
The girl’s squeal of adoration cut through the screaming applause of the audience. Richard smiled at the sound and took one more quick bow before starting down the cluttered backstage path. The mass of voices followed him in thundering echoes as he strode quickly past the lines of congratulating hands to reach the limo parked outside. Inside, Richard leaned back, breathing deeply. His manager handed him a drink.
“Fantastic,” said Stephen nodding rapidly. “Couldn’t go much better than that.” Richard downed the glass of bourbon.
“Thanks,” he said, wiping his mouth on his white satin sleeve. He picked up a pack of Camels and tore away the cellophane. “Beautiful audience. Not like Sacramento.” He smacked the package against his left palm and ripped at the silver folds. Richard’s hands trembled slightly as he worked his way inside. “It’s so much easier to sing with such pretty girls all around.” He flipped a cigarette out of the tight bundle and stuck it on his lip. Stephen thrust a flame beneath the tip. “Thanks,” mumbled Richard, taking a deep hit of the dry smoke.
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